Ski Mountaineering Course (SMC)

Alpine Guides Ski Mountaineering Course (SMC) program is an adventure week for big mountain ski descents, among the incredible glaciated peaks of the Southern Alps.
The 6-day trip runs deep in the mountains of New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, at the confluence of the Tasman and Murchison Glaciers.
Our expert IFMGA/NZMGA guides will take you on epic descents, while instructing in safe technique and technical skills along the way.

Ski Descents and Technical Instruction

The SMC is about big mountain skiing objectives, from the peaks, big faces, couloirs, and glacial bowls throughout the upper Tasman and Murchison area of Mt Cook National Park.

The SMC is not about standing around in a classroom environment. Rather, you will learn by doing, out there on the hills with your guide as you link turns.

The ski options are endless from of our base at Tasman Saddle; from steep and deep to long and ‘cruisy’.

We tailor each trip based on the strength of the party and snow conditions at the time.

Aircraft access AND exit costs are included in the cost, maximising your time in the mountains.

Private Courses for Advanced Ski Mountaineers

The scheduled dates are great for people with some backcountry experience. But experienced ski mountaineers should consider booking a guide on a private basis.

We can work up to a 1:4 guide participant ratio, depending on your experience, and how adventurous the lines you want you ski.